Europe is known for its stunning architecture, rich history, and delicious food. However, many travelers tend to stick to the well-trodden path and visit the same touristy spots that everyone else goes to. But what about the hidden gems? The underrated destinations that are just as beautiful and fascinating as their more popular counterparts, but often get overlooked? In this blog post, we’ll be taking a look at five of the most underrated places to visit in Europe that you should add to your travel bucket list.
Riga, Latvia :
First on our list is Riga, the capital city of Latvia. Despite being one of the largest cities in the Baltics, Riga is often overlooked by travelers in favor of more well-known destinations like Prague or Budapest. But Riga is a hidden gem, with stunning architecture, delicious food, and a rich cultural heritage. The city’s old town is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is filled with winding cobblestone streets, beautiful churches, and colorful buildings. One of the most popular attractions in Riga is the Art Nouveau district, which boasts some of the most beautiful architecture in Europe.
In addition to its stunning architecture, Riga is also known for its delicious food. Latvian cuisine is a mix of Russian, German, and Scandinavian influences, and the city is home to numerous restaurants and cafes where you can try traditional Latvian dishes like grey peas with bacon or smoked fish.
Plovdiv, Bulgaria:
Next up is Plovdiv, the second-largest city in Bulgaria. Plovdiv has a rich history dating back over 6,000 years and is home to some of the best-preserved Roman ruins in the world. The city also has a vibrant cultural scene, with numerous festivals and events throughout the year. The Old Town is a must-visit, with its colorful houses, narrow cobblestone streets, and charming cafes. The city’s main pedestrian street, Knyaz Alexander I, is also worth a visit, with its numerous shops and restaurants.
Ljubljana, Slovenia:
Ljubljana, the capital city of Slovenia, is often overshadowed by its more famous neighbors, Vienna and Venice. But this small city is a hidden gem, with a picturesque old town, beautiful bridges, and a vibrant food scene. The city is known for its green spaces, with numerous parks and gardens throughout the city, including Tivoli Park, which is one of the largest parks in Europe. Be sure to take a stroll along the Ljubljanica River, visit the Ljubljana Castle, and don’t forget to try the famous cream cake, a local delicacy.
Valletta, Malta:
Valletta, the capital city of Malta, is a small but mighty destination that is often overlooked in favor of more popular Mediterranean cities like Barcelona or Athens. But Valletta has a rich history and a stunning Baroque architecture that is sure to impress. The city’s main attraction is St. John’s Co-Cathedral, a Baroque masterpiece that is considered one of the finest churches in Europe. Other must-visit attractions include the Grand Master’s Palace and the Upper Barrakka Gardens, which offer stunning views of the harbor.
Porto, Portugal:
Last but not least, we have Porto, the second-largest city in Portugal after Lisbon. Porto is a hidden gem that is often overshadowed by its more famous neighbor, but it has plenty to offer travelers, including stunning architecture, delicious food, and a vibrant wine scene. The city is known for its historic center, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and its numerous museums and galleries. Be sure to visit the Ribeira district, which is filled with colorful houses and charming cafes, and take a stroll along the Douro River, which offers stunning views of the city. And of course, no trip to Porto is complete without trying some of the city’s famous port wine.
Conclusion:
These five destinations are just a few of the many underrated places to visit in Europe. While they may not be as well-known as some of the more popular tourist destinations, they offer just as much beauty, history, and culture. So why not step off the beaten path and explore these hidden gems for yourself?
When planning your next trip to Europe, consider adding one or more of these destinations to your itinerary. They are sure to offer a unique and unforgettable travel experience that you won’t find in the more popular tourist destinations. And who knows, you may even discover your new favorite travel spot.
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