Want to explore European cities that are not valued and undiscovered gems? Please be prepared for surprise.
Welcome to Europe’s Secret Gem World, these little-known and unknown places, full of charm, culture and personality. They often have unique history, unique national culture, and provide real and in-depth travel opportunities. In these places, you can completely separate from the crowd and interact with the lifestyle of local people.
One attraction for tourists is Europe. Our curiosity and introverted explorers are inspired by their vibrant cities and towns. European historical buildings are highly praised by history lovers, and their diverse landscapes fascinate outdoor enthusiasts. In addition, if you like food, it is also easy to eat in exotic cities and hidden treasures in Europe. You will not be tired of the many food choices offered by these European special tourist destinations, because the local ingredients and delicacies vary from village to village.
Due to the low price of air tickets and the hype of economic media, every square meter of this amazing mainland seems to have been crossed. This raises a question: “Is there any undiscovered treasure in Europe to be excavated?”
I raised this question to some of my cherished travel bloggers and local people who know about Europe. Although it is difficult to find hidden gems in Europe, this list reveals many of them. The following is a list of 21 hidden gemstones that Europe may avoid in 2023.
1. Setenil de las Bodegas in Spain
In the south of Spain, there is a small settlement called Setenil de las Bodegas, which was carved from the cliff. This shows that local people absolutely live underground.
The houses in the town have been completely painted, which forms a huge contrast with the dark cliff looming behind.
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What to see and do
In addition to the beautiful cliff edge, Setnier-Dras-Bodegas also has a pair of noteworthy scenic spots. Two fascinating attractions include the Nazari Castle and the Rankanasion Church. These two scenic spots are very unique, consolidating the reputation of the town as one of the best underrated tourist destinations in Europe.
The Nazari Castle, which stands on the top of the mountain, was an Arab fortress, dating back to the 13th century. This medieval castle was one of the last Moorish strongholds before Christians reoccupied the Iberian Peninsula at the end of the 14th century. After the last siege, all the original towers of the castle were demolished except one tower. However, in order to enjoy the amazing scenery of the picturesque town below, it is still worth a quick stop.
La Encarnaci ó n is not the most luxurious church in Spain, but it is very special. It was built in the early 15th century, reflecting the late Gothic architecture. The church of Rancanacion is simple and quiet, giving people a glimpse of the past life of small Spanish villages.
Where is it?
Sitting between Seville and Granada, Setnier-Dras-Bodegas is one of the most unique places in Spain and one of the best secrets of Andalusia. It’s a wonder how this town has been unnoticed for such a long time. Setenil de las Bodegas is only 11 miles (18 kilometers) north of Ronda, and is another non-mainstream destination worth visiting.2. Algarve, Portugal
Algarve, located in the south of Portugal, is one of the unique tourist destinations in Europe. Although the Riviera of France, Italy and Spain stole most of the show, I think Portugal’s paradise in Algarve can give an explanation to these scenic spots.
What makes Algarve one of the best tourist destinations in Europe?
This area embraces the Atlantic coastline, providing rugged landforms and windy beaches that you can’t find anywhere else. Painted villages and towns are scattered between the sand bay and the beach, and you don’t have to pay for living there.
Algarve is much cheaper and less famous than similar regions in the Mediterranean. Nevertheless, the tourism development level in this area is much lower. Therefore, if you are looking forward to the tourist enclaves of beach resorts, clubs and restaurants everywhere, you’d better go to the places mentioned above.
Look at the famous high cliffs and epic rock formations in this area. Walk in the ancient fishing village and endless beaches, enjoy the sunshine. No wonder it is one of the best tourist destinations in Europe!
Look at the sunset from the Seven Hanging Valley Trail.
Where am I now?
Algarve is 155 miles (250 kilometers) south of Lisbon. Some towns and cities you will want to visit include Lagos, Faro, Tavira and Albufala.
If you want to find a hidden gem with primitive beauty in one of the coolest places in Europe, you must add Algarve to your travel list
3. Pelast, Montenegro
Would you like to add something to your European wish list? Look at this.
Just north of Cotor, one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, there is a small coastal village called Pelast. It is cheap, simple, and seems to be out of demand. Therefore, it is one of the best hidden gemstones in Europe that you should visit in 2023.
Between the 15th and 18th centuries, Pelast was a strategic port between the Ottoman Empire and the Republic of Venice. There are only 274 people and only one main street. It is hard to imagine that this small city was at the crossroads of these powerful empires.
The Cotor Bay in Pelast and Montenegro is one of the best hidden gemstones in Europe.
What to see and do
Recently, Pelast has attracted tourists with its mixed churches, royal palaces and nearby islands.
There are 16 churches in Pelast, which is probably the place with the largest number of churches per capita in the world. The most magnificent of them is St. Nicholas Church, which is a baroque masterpiece dating back to the 17th century. The town is also surrounded by beautiful mountains, which look at the bay below. With so much scenery and charm, it is no wonder that Pelast is one of the most underrated tourist cities in Europe.
The old city of Pelast is one of the best unknown places in Europe.
Other highlights of Pelast
Take a ferry from Pelast to Cotor Bay, and you can see an artificial island called “Rock Virgin”. According to legend, sailors built the island 500 years ago by stacking rocks and old boats. A small church stands on the stone pier protruding from the water. Inside, you will find many beautiful 17th century paintings and an icon of the Virgin Mary dating back to the 14th century.
On the way to Notre Dame Rock by boat, you will encounter another island with intriguing history – St. George. The most famous natural island is its 12th century monastery. Unfortunately, it is not open to tourists, but you can take a boat around the island for only a few euros. It is very hidden, so it is worth mentioning in the hidden treasures of Europe.
In addition to interesting scenery and attractions, Peraste is also a spectacular place for seafood lovers. Local fishermen brought fresh fish of the day directly from Cotor Bay and Adriatic Sea. The oysters and mussels here are the best in the region.
Where is it?
Pelast is only 7.5 miles (12 kilometers) north of Cotor and less than 50 miles (80 kilometers) from Dubrovnik, Croatia. It is also 100 miles (160 kilometers) from Mostar in Bosnia and Herzegovina, making Pelast a popular one-day tour. Needless to say, there are many things to see in this part of Europe. So pack your bags and start to move!
With beautiful architecture and charming history, Peraste is one of the best hidden gemstones in Europe that you should visit in 2023.
4. Teth National Park, Albania
If you are looking for one of the most unique tourist destinations in Europe, please add Tess National Park to your wish list! This undervalued resort is located in the heart of Albania and is a real paradise for nature lovers and explorers. This undervalued resort is located in the center of Albania. It is a real paradise for nature lovers and explorers.
I was hiking in Seth National Park
What makes Seth National Park so special? First of all, it is the location of the most amazing scenery you have ever seen. The park is located in the Alps of Albania, where there are towering peaks, clear rivers and dense forests. Theth National Park is also home to a variety of wild animals, including rare birds and animals that you can’t find anywhere else in the world.
What makes Seth a unique tourist destination in Europe
But what really makes Seth National Park different is its rich cultural history. There are many traditional Albanian villages handed down from generation to generation in the park. From these villages, you can see the unique lifestyle of Albanian people. You will have the opportunity to interact with local people and understand their culture and traditions.
So, why did you go to Seth National Park? Well, if you are a lover of nature and culture, then this is your perfect destination. Here, you can escape from the crowd and experience real and immersive things. In addition, it is an undervalued destination in Europe, so you will have the opportunity to experience all of these, instead of the congestion and tourism traps in more famous destinations.
I have been to the Alps in Switzerland, Austria and Italy many times. I must say These mountains in Albania can certainly be compared with them. What is the most important? There are few other people there. So, please pack your bags and go to Seth National Park for a lifetime unforgettable adventure!
Bridgera is a medieval fairy tale town in the south of Bologna. It is incredibly beautiful and charming, but it keeps a low profile unconsciously. You may not have heard of it, which is why it deserves to be listed as the best hidden gem in Europe.
Bristola, Italy, is one of the best secret places and underrated cities in Europe.
What to see and do
Bristola is a secret destination with rich history and real culture. It is located between three majestic hills, including a castle (La Rocca), a bell tower (La Torre), and a church (Il Monticino). These buildings can be traced back to the 14th, 16th and 18th centuries respectively.
Other characteristics of Brisguera make it one of the most unique tourist destinations in Europe
Hiking is a popular activity here, especially in summer. You can walk from the village to each of the above scenic spots, where you will harvest the vast scenery of the village and the countryside.
Bristigra is indeed a place where you can wander aimlessly, and you won’t be tired of its simple and colorful streets. But if you are really tired, you can taste a lot of world-class wine, olive oil and ice cream in its restaurants and cafes.
Given its brilliant nature and charm, Bristola is one of the best unknown places to visit in Europe.
Where is it?
From Bologna, the capital of Emilia Romagna, it takes only 1 hour by train or bus. It is only more than two hours’ drive from Venice and only one hour and 20 minutes’ drive from Florence.
Bristigra is full of beautiful buildings and beautiful villages. It is one of the best hidden gemstones in Europe that you should visit in 2023.
6. Mittenwald, Germany
Colored houses with a long history.
A snowy mountain range.
Bavarian food and beer.
Tourists.
Mitenwald is a sleepy village, which seems to be extracted from Grimes’ fairy tales. Mittenwald has always been one of the best hidden treasures and undervalued places in Europe, which may be surprising, especially considering its proximity to Germany’s powerful automobile industry.
What to see and do
Mitenwald is a typical German town, and everyone should visit and experience it. Every corner of it is full of vitality, first of all, its colorful buildings. Many houses and shops in the town have a history of more than 250 years, but you would think they were built yesterday.
When you plan to travel to Mitenwald, you will want to set aside enough time for yourself to visit Altstadt, or the old city. The eternal tradition has been fully displayed on every street, especially on the street (Obermarkt, main street). Colorful houses, shops and murals are scattered on the pedestrian path of the town. This is a lovely scene.
Interestingly, Mittenwald has a long history and heritage in violin production technology. Therefore, it is often called “violin village with thousands of people”. Given that Mittenwald is charming and rhythmic, this name is very suitable for this town.
Another highlight here is the Cavender Alps, which provides an epic background around the town. This makes Mitenwald an ideal place for skiing in winter and hiking in summer.
Mitwald is the real hidden treasure of Europe! There are not many tourists (usually coexisting with picturesque places in Europe).
Without a large number of tourists (usually keeping pace with the picturesque towns in Europe), the loudest sound you may hear one day is the gentle stream flowing through the center of the town. Otherwise, you may hear the sound of the violin.
The quiet and eternal atmosphere makes Mitenwald one of the most unknown and underestimated places in Europe.
Where is it?
Mittenwald is located at the border between Germany and Austria. It takes only 2 hours by train from Munich and 40 minutes from Innsbruck, Austria. Although it is very close to these popular places, it is still one of the best hidden treasures in Europe that you should go to in 2023.
If you want to visit one of the best castles in Europe during this trip, Neuschwanstein Castle is only an hour’s drive from here.
7. Varna, Bulgaria
Unlike the first two hidden gemstones in this list, Varna is more like an international metropolis in Europe than a small village. However, so far, it has successfully avoided the eyes of the public. Here is why you should go to Varna, one of the best secret places and underrated cities in Europe.
Varna is a seaside resort city with beautiful beaches and vivid cultural scenes. Local people think it is a gem of the Black Sea, but most people outside Bulgaria have not even heard of it. Christine, a teacher and blogger who has lived in Europe and visited all corners of the European continent, recently traveled to the coastal city of Varna.
“When I heard of Varna, I knew I had to go and see it. I learned something about Bulgaria from Rick Steves’ program, but I didn’t know it except that they nodded” yes “and shook their heads to say” yes “. I had to search for Varna on Google, and I didn’t know anything about it. What a beautiful shore of the Black Sea…” — Christine-N, “Under the sun of Liguria”.
Bulgarian Varna is one of the best preserved secrets and hidden gemstones in Europe. Photo source: Kristin N., Under the Ligurian Sun
Nestled on the shores of Lake Ohrid, this city offers a dose of history, culture, and sublime beauty. Ohrid is a UNECO World Heritage Site that’s considered the “Jerusalem of the Balkans,” filled with old world charm including historic streets, churches, and a medieval castle. They also call Ohrid the “Pearl of North Macedonia.” Take a stroll through the cobbled streets with views of the lake and surrounding landscapes, and you’ll wonder how Ohrid has remained off the beaten path for so long.
What to see and do in Ohrid, one of Europe’s best hidden gems
In the same day, you can explore the city’s historic landmarks and go swimming in the lake. One of the best views you’ll find is from St. John the Theologian, an old church with sweeping vistas of the lake and surrounding mountains. It was built during pre-Ottoman times in the 13th century, and boasts some beautiful frescoes and Byzantine-style architecture.
Other must-see sights include Saint Sophia, Church of Saint Clement and Panteleimon, Holy Mary Perybleptos, and Plaoshnik, all of which are ancient churches and archeological sites. In between, don’t miss Samoil’s Fortress, an 11th-century fortress that straddles the old town. The historic architecture is very unique, and unlike any of the structures you’ll find in Western and Central Europe. As such, it’s easy to see why Ohrid is among the best hidden gems in Eastern Europe.
Aside from sightseeing, Ohrid is a city where you should relax, unwind, and soak in the alfresco scene. There are lots of lakeside restaurants and cafés, where you can spend hours on end and never grow tired of the lively ambiance. And the best part of all? Ohrid is a budget-friendly city where you can pay as little as $10 per night on accommodation. Winning!
Where is it?
Ohrid is located in Northern Macedonia, not far from the Albanian border. The easiest way to get here is to fly to the capital, Skopje, and then take a 3.5-hour bus. Ohrid, with its excellent geographical location and endless attractions, is one of the most unique tourist destinations in Europe.
A Macedonian Orthodox church built in Byzantine style.
10. St. Gilgen, Austria
St. Gilgan is a small village across one of Austria’s most beautiful lakes – Wolfgang Lake. It has everything you expect from an Alpine town: original scenery, fairytale houses and traditional cuisine. What else do you want?
St. Gilgen is not as expensive as Salzburg or crowded as Halstadt, making it a perfect place to experience Austria’s non-mainstream charm. Here is why you want to visit one of the best secrets and underrated places in Europe.
What to see and do
There is a cheerful atmosphere in St. Gilgan. There are various forms throughout the year. In winter, it is a popular ski resort among Austrians. The Zw ö lferhorn Mountain overlooks the town and adjacent lakes, providing an incredible vantage point for the winter wonderland below.
In summer, the mountain attracts enthusiastic hikers to its top. Taking the cable car to the top of the mountain is an experience in itself. You will be amazed by the endless green plants below and the alpine lakes dotted with them.
In addition to the scenery, St. Gilgan also brings you into a happy atmosphere with its colorful houses and shops. The exterior walls are painted with every color (or more) of the rainbow. Wooden balconies, quaint hotels and family-run restaurants are typical of Austrian style.
In the summer of St. Gilgan, there are many water sports on the lake. You can rent boats, paddles and almost all other types of water equipment. Whether you are looking for relaxation or stimulation, Wolfgang Lake can satisfy you.
Wolfgang Lake is a popular holiday destination for Austrians. The public has not found this gem hidden in the center of Central Europe.
St. Gilgan is a famous place in Europe. You can visit it at any time of the year
Just before Christmas, it is another magical time to visit St. Gilgan. The town will glow with vitality in the well-designed “Christkindmarket” or Christmas market. The charming atmosphere makes you feel that you are walking in this Austrian village and returning to the past. The food and gifts on display are also very attractive. Does anyone want to drink smouldering wine?
Where is it?
St. Gilgan is 17 miles (28 kilometers) east of Salzburg, and it only takes 30 minutes by bus. If you just want to stay for a short time, I suggest you visit the whole area under the guidance of your guide.
As an avid fan of The Sound of Music, I naturally feel that I have to make a trip to The Sound of Music. Generally speaking, I don’t like bus travel very much. I prefer to explore by myself, but this is a very special thing.
First of all, it can give you a good overview of the region and its top attractions. We drove through Salzburg, shuttle back and forth on the green mountains, and drive around the nearby villages and towns (including St. Gilgan). The bus often stops. Let’s take pictures. For me, this trip is an impact on the past. During the whole journey, the loudspeaker on the bus has been playing the popular songs in the movie. Indeed, I sang with other diehard fans of the Voice of Music. This is really great. I will definitely do it again (including the bus trip to St. Gilgan).
11. English rye
Want to live in one of the most unique places in Europe? Rye is your dream place!
Mai is a typical English town, which brings you back to the past. It is probably one of the most ancient towns in the whole country. Its charming houses and buildings can be traced back to the 14th and 15th centuries. It nestles close to the English Channel, providing a charming view of the Rose River and the Romney Marsh.
Walking along the cobbled passage, you will see half-timbered houses and historic hotels. Feel the medieval atmosphere of Mermaid Street and stop at the Rye Castle Museum. It is not difficult to see why this is the most worthwhile place to visit in Europe!
Where is it?
Rye is 70 miles (112 kilometers) southeast of London, only 1.5 hours by car and 1 hour by train. If you just want to stay for a short time, I suggest you take a tour of the whole area with a guide.
12. Basel, Switzerland
Although Basel is located in the heart of Central Europe, it is a hidden gem and deserves a place on this list.
The Sparentor was built around 1400. It is a landmark landscape in the heart of one of the most underrated cities in Europe.
What to see and do
Basel is particularly lively in summer. The Rhine River flowing through the city provides a beautiful summer swimming place for local people and tourists. Against the background of the old city, the open air scenery along the river bank makes you feel incredible in the process of downstream.
Walking along the Rhine River, you can see the most charming scenery of Basel, which is one of the best hidden resorts in Europe.
In addition, Basel has a prosperous art scene. This undervalued city has more than 40 museums and cultural attractions, so it is known as the “cultural capital of Switzerland”.
Outside the museum, you will find many art exhibitions on the street, the most striking is its architecture. Take a walk, and you will enjoy everything you see. Two of the most representative buildings in the city are the Sparentor (Spallen Gate) and Basel M ü nster (Cathedral) with a history of more than 500 years.
Basel has many things worth seeing, making it one of the best hidden cities in Europe.
Where is it?
Basel is a pocket city, located in the northwest corner of Switzerland, bordering Germany and France. This city has achieved a unique balance between the coolness of the city and the small town by the river.
13. Allentjo, Portugal
Unless you are a wine taster or a native of Portugal, you may not have heard much (or anything) about Allentjo. So far, this region in southern Portugal has completely avoided the fun and difficulties of European tourism. With its historic village, endless vineyards and stable sunshine, Allentru deserves a place in your growing list of Europe’s best hidden gems.
Where is it?
Allentjo covers one third of the vast land in southern Portugal. Therefore, there are several convenient ways to get here from the north and south. In the north of Allentru, you can fly to Lisbon, and then drive east for 2 hours to reach Evora. In the south of the region, it is better to fly to Faro. Then, walk north for about 2 hours to reach Beha, which is one of the best secret places in Europe.
14. Archer Island, Ireland
If you are looking for an undervalued European destination, please go to Archier Island to have a look! This little paradise is located in the south of Ireland. This little paradise is located on the west coast of Ireland. It is the perfect destination for anyone who wants to escape the noise of daily life.
So what makes Archie Island so special? First of all, it has some of the most amazing scenery imaginable. The island is located along Wild Atlantic Way. It is filled with endless green mountains, picturesque beaches and rugged cliffs.
So, why did you go to Archie Island? If you are a lover of nature, culture and Guinness beer, then this is your perfect destination. Here, you can escape from the crowd and experience real and immersive things. In addition, this is an undervalued destination, so you don’t have to deal with those annoying tourists blocking all the best attractions (of course, it’s not that tourists have any problems, they just tend to destroy everything).
If you want to explore Ireland in the short term, I strongly recommend that you spend time in the west of the country. Just be sure to bring a good raincoat — after all, this is Ireland.
15. Pag Island, Croatia
Pug Island is one in a hundred.
It is one of the 1200 islands of Croatia in the Adriatic Sea, which may explain why it can keep a low profile and is still one of the best hidden gemstones in Europe.
What to see and do on Pag Island, which is one of the coolest secret treasures in Europe
Unlike other islands in Croatia, Pag Island is often tropical and covered by dense vegetation, while Pag Island is almost of another world. It looks more like the moon than our own planet. There are no rivers and trees here. On the contrary, the dry landscape is covered with white stones and a lot of salt. It is no wonder that Pag Island will become an ideal destination for salt people and beach lovers.
The northern part of Pug Island is famous for its active nightlife scene, while the southern part is more quiet and serene.
The island is also dotted with countless hidden beaches. The coastline is relatively calm, with shallow bays and clear water. Top beaches include Zilce Beach, Strasco Beach and Lusika Beach.
In addition to the exotic terrain, Pag Island is also famous for its goat milk cheese. It is widely recognized as the best handmade cheese in Croatia. To match it, be sure to try Pug Zutica (local white wine) and Pug mutton.
Where is it?
Pag Island is located 35 miles (56 kilometers) north of Zadar, Croatia, which is equivalent to about 2 hours by bus.
To get here, you have to fly to Zadar first, and then take the bus from there. In summer, there are also connections with several other major cities. Split, Zagreb and Rijeka. However, these cities are far away from Zadar, so you’d better fly there.
Its transportation is not super convenient, which may explain why it is one of the best hidden gemstones in Europe.
16. Kazimiz-Dorny, Poland
When most international travelers think of Poland, they may first think of Warsaw and Krakow. However, there is a small town between these cities, which is equally lovely, but does not attract the same crowd. Kazimierz Dolny has a population of only 3500, and is unknown for most of the time in the European tourism industry. It is undoubtedly one of the best unknown places in Europe.
What to see and do
If you like art, you will feel at home in Kazimigh-Dorni. The streets here are like an endless art exhibition. You will find art galleries in almost every street, where artists and painters eagerly open shops to sell their works. Properly, the houses and shops on both sides of these streets are also full of vitality and color. For these reasons, Kazimigh-Dorni is known as the top art center in central Europe.
From a more solemn point of view, Kazimigh-Dorni is also the site of the Holocaust Memorial Wall. In the long history of this town, it is very important to recognize the good and the bad. The Holocaust Memorial Wall is a place for meditation and reflection, only a short walking distance from the city center.
Another top attraction of Kazimigh-Dorni is its old market square. It is much smaller than Krakow’s square (Krakow happens to be the largest medieval square in Europe), but it is definitely worth visiting to admire its extraordinary architecture. In summer, this small square will soon be crowded with Polish tourists. Therefore, if you want to enjoy the square alone, you must stop in the morning.
Where is it?
Kazimith-Dorni is located 90 miles (145 kilometers) southeast of Warsaw and 160 miles (260 kilometers) northeast of Krakow. Generally speaking, Polish trains are very reliable and cheap, so you should have no problem jumping between cities. However, as far as Kazimigh, a small town in the countryside, is concerned, you may want to take a train to Bakowitz, and then take a bus or taxi to complete the rest of the journey.
Whether you are a history lover or an art lover, you will agree that Kazimigh-Dorni is one of the best kept secrets in Europe.
17. Medina, Malta
When you stand on the streets of Medina, you will feel that you have suddenly come to Europe, North Africa and the Middle East.
This charming city has been a precious fortification for nearly 2700 years. Its architecture was influenced by many powerful empires, including Phoenicians, Romans, Arabs, Byzantines and Normans. Today, it is undoubtedly one of the best hidden resorts in Europe.
Since the 12th century, Medina has been the home of aristocratic families from Malta, Spain and Sicily. It is one of the best underrated tourist cities in Europe.
Where is it?
Medina is only 8 miles (13 kilometers) from the capital of Malta, Valletta. However, due to the heavy traffic, it takes about one hour to take the bus. Malta may be a small and compact island, but it is one of the most densely populated countries in the world. It is also one of the easiest countries to access Instagram in the world.
18. Zermatt, Switzerland
Unlike other European destinations on this list, the price of Zermatt is relatively cheap (after all, we are talking about hidden gems), but the price of Zermatt is very high. However, when you consider its environment in the noble snowy mountains, luxury resorts and charming villas, it is definitely worth every Swiss franc.
In the affluent social circle, Zermatt is considered a popular ski resort town. However, for the rest of us, it is definitely one of the best hidden resorts in Europe.
What to see and do
Zermatt filled the hall with many outstanding roles in the year. From January to March, Zermatt is a winter wonderland with a lively ski resort. Since April, it has become a summer resort, although in August you can still see a lot of snow covering the iconic Matte Peak (altitude: 14692 feet/4478 meters). If you are a chocolate connoisseur (like me), be prepared to be shocked: Matterhorn is the mountain on the Tobrini chocolate bar. Interesting facts!
Marie-Lise is a digital marketing consultant with a background in the hotel industry and works in Switzerland. Here are the reasons why she thinks you should visit Zermatt.
“Zermatt is beautiful at any time of the year. In winter, the snow-covered mountains are ideal places for skiing. In summer, Zermatt becomes a paradise for hikers. At any time, you have the opportunity to see the most amazing scenery in Switzerland”.
-Mary Liss (graduated from the Lausanne Business School and the Greion College of Higher Education)
Where is it?
Zermatt is located in the south of Switzerland, along the Swiss-Italian border. The nearest airports to Zermatt are Sion and Geneva, but Zurich and Milan are also within its scope. The last part of the journey is to take the mountain gear railway from Tash, where you can see the beauty of the Swiss Alps.
Although Zermatt is a popular destination for hikers and skiers, it is definitely covered up by Interlaken. It is also much smaller than other Alpine towns farther north, and the traffic is inconvenient.
Stay in hotels, hotels or Airbnb where you can see these snow mountains, and you will understand why it is one of the best hidden gems in Central Europe.
19. French Fireque is the top secret gem in Europe
Fizek is one of the most underrated and well-preserved medieval towns in Europe. The town’s Wikipedia page contains less than 50 words about it, which proves its secrecy.
Fizek is quiet and simple, which may be the best description of life in the Middle Ages. It is also one of the best unknown places in Europe.
What to see and do
In Figeac, the cheerful combination of wood and stone architecture is integrated with the surrounding landscape. The gentle rolling hills and waterways surround the beautiful village, which is the original and unrestrained taste of French countryside. Firek is a place where history and nature blend harmoniously.
What makes this town interesting and different from other places is that there is no one or two leading scenic spots to attract tourists. In fact, only a few of TripAdvisor’s “things to do” received any comments. Rather than attracting tourists with specific scenic spots, Firek’s irresistible attraction lies in its eternal charm.
The cobbled streets, 13th century buildings and noble landscapes all illustrate this point. It is quite refreshing to find a destination without the support of social media and online comments and still maintain its freedom and authenticity.
However, if you are looking for additional stimuli to stimulate your desire to roam, you may find that Jean-Francois Champolly is a famous French scholar who deciphered Egyptian hieroglyphs and was born here. There is even a museum dedicated to him and his journey to uncover the greatest mystery of ancient history. In the Champollion Museum, you will also find an incredible replica of the Rosetta stone tablet.
Fizek is a unique and unusual city in Europe
For those who like outdoor activities, Firek is a good place for hiking and boating. On Saturday, there is also a well-designed market where you can buy local products. For hundreds of years, there may be no change here, which is its charm.
Where is it?
Fizek is basically the middle point between Toulouse, Montpellier and Bordeaux. It only takes 2 hours to drive north from Toulouse, 3 hours to drive northwest from Montpellier and 3 hours to drive east from Bordeaux. The map below will help you understand this better.
Although Fizek is close to many large French cities, it is one of the most mysterious places in France. Therefore, Fizek is one of the most valuable hidden treasures in Europe in 2023.
20. Tregrave National Park, Slovenia
Most of these hidden treasures in Europe are centered around unknown cities and towns, so there is a top natural resort here.
Trigraf National Park is the only national park and the largest protected area in Slovenia. It is located in the eastern part of the Julian Alps and is the location of the country’s highest mountain, Tregrave (9395 feet/2863.65 meters). This is why it is one of the best hidden gemstones in Europe.
What to see and do
If you want to stay away from the noise in the Julian Alps, this is it. Take a walk along the hiking route of Tregrave National Park, which is a combination of natural beauty and cultural heritage. When you explore beautiful lakes, streams, mountains and villages, it is not difficult to see why this national park can inspire generations.
Go hiking and mountain climbing and immerse yourself in unique valleys and mountains. The scenery here is breathtaking, especially in autumn, where the trees are covered by autumn colors. When you visit Tregrave National Park, you must spend enough time to relax, relax and communicate with nature.
Where is it?
Trigraf National Park is located in the north of Slovenia, near the border between Italy and Austria. It is about 30 minutes’ drive from Villach, Austria, and 1 hour’s drive from Ljubljana (the capital of Slovenia). The park is also close to Lake Brad, which is my favorite hidden gem in Europe.
21. Wesby, Sweden. The top destination of these hidden gemstones in Europe
Want to find hidden gemstones in northern Europe? Visit Wesby, you won’t be disappointed!
Visby is a charming medieval town located in Gotland Island, Sweden. It is far away from the typical tourist crowd and only really popular among Scandinavians. If you are looking for a real Swedish experience, this is your choice.
Visby, Sweden
What to see and do
Wesby is most famous for its Medieval Week (Medeltidsveckan), which is a large medieval festival from June to August and consists of fairytale activities, such as martial arts contests, street performances and concerts. What is the best part? You can wear Swedish medieval clothing. I don’t want to drink my Swedish beer in other ways.
Adding to the medieval charm of Wesby is the 700-year-old city wall surrounding the town. From the Middle Ages to today, Wesby has played a key strategic and commercial role in the Baltic Sea.
Where is this hidden treasure that looks like Europe?
Visby (and Gottland) is located in the Baltic Sea and can be reached by boat and plane. Most tourists come here by direct flight from Stockholm (35 minutes) or as the port city of the Baltic cruise ship. It also takes about 3 hours to take the ferry from Nynashamn and Oskarshamn in Sweden.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about European unique tourist destinations
Here are some common questions (and answers) about Europe’s most undervalued cities and other hidden treasures in Europe.
Q: Why do I go to Europe’s hidden treasure?
A: There are many awesome reasons to visit Europe’s hidden treasures! These destinations are the perfect retreat from the clamor of more tourist destinations. These destinations are the perfect retreat from noisy tourist destinations. You can enjoy the slower pace of life and take time to really explore and appreciate the local culture. In addition, hidden treasures are often more suitable for budget than more well-known destinations. So you can stretch your travel budget further.
Q: What is the most undervalued place in Europe?
Well, this is a difficult decision, but I have to say that the most undervalued place in Europe may be Moldova. As a small landlocked country in Eastern Europe, it is often ignored by tourists and chooses more famous destinations such as France and Italy. But believe me, Moldova has a lot to offer! There are beautiful forests, rolling hills and rich cultural heritage. In addition, the wine here is also first-class — in other parts of the world, you can’t find a more cost-effective wine than a bottle of Cabernet Sauvignon! Therefore, if you want to experience the wine of Moldova, you can choose to buy it here. Therefore, if you want to experience the best things in Europe without crowded crowds and tourist traps, Moldova may be the place you want to go. Just make sure you bring your spirit of adventure — if you plan to taste local wine, you should also bring a designated driver!
Q: Is it safe to visit Europe’s hidden treasures?
A: Like any destination, it is always a good idea to understand your environment and take common sense preventive measures. However, Europe’s hidden treasures are usually very safe places. These destinations are usually located in inaccessible places, which means they are less crowded and there are not many tourists, so there may be less crime.
Q: What is the best way to find hidden gemstones in Europe?
A: One of the best ways to find hidden treasures in Europe is to do research and dig deeply. Look for some remote destinations and read the comments and blogs of other travelers who have visited the area. You can also ask local people for advice, because they often have inside knowledge of the best hidden gemstones in the region.
Q: Can I use my budget to visit hidden places in Europe?
A: Of course! Europe’s secret places are often more suitable for budget than well-known destinations. So you can stretch your travel budget further. In addition, these destinations are often located in remote places, which means that you will have the opportunity to get more real and local experiences, rather than those expensive tourist traps you find in more popular destinations. So don’t be afraid to go out and explore the little-known places in Europe. Who knows You may find your favorite new destination!
Have you ever been to these “best” hidden treasures in Europe?
If so, let me know which one you like best! If not, I hope some of these places have entered your list of wishes
The best hidden gemstones in Europe come in various shapes and sizes. I hope this article will arouse your interest and introduce you to some unknown destinations and hidden resorts in Europe.
Do you like to read about these unique tourist attractions in Europe?