Europe’s Hidden Gems – Explore Incredible European Towns
Europe is known as the oldest continent and a home to a great diversity of cultures. A birthplace of the civilization. Because of the vast collection of ancient and modern cultures and historical heritage, mixed with amazing nature and a lot of hospitality, it could be hard to pick simply one European city to visit next. As many love to say, in Europe you can find and experience everything, there is practically everything for everyone. We hope that you can find your next favourite place with our help, so make sure to keep reading and browse our top guide to incredible European cities.
Colmar, France
Colmar is a small picturesque town in France. This magical place is considered as one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. Almost on the border with Germany, it is also called “Little Venice.” The reason is more than clear: in one of the neighbourhoods there are no streets… canals replace streets and offer the opportunity for an unforgettable gondola ride. When you find yourself there for the first time, you will feel like in a fairy tale.
The beauty of the old streets and houses attract tourists from all over the world. Here you can see perfectly preserved intact neighbourhoods in medieval and Renaissance style. The town is famous not only with the magic of the colours but thanks to the warm mild climate, Colmar is an ideal place for growing grapes. Conveniently located on the Alsatian Wine Route, it is called “The Alsatian Wine Capital”. The town has a special charm and admiration at night when the ancient lanterns in the streets are lit. Colmar is definitely one of the jewels of France.
Hallstatt, Austria
Nestled in the mountains of Austria, the small town of Hallstatt is located in the Austrian Salzkammergut region, near the Hallstatt Lake. Besides the beautiful views of the city and the lake shore, here tourists can see the first salt mine in the world, to explore the Museum of World Heritage, as well to visit the Dachstein ice cave. Although this town is very small, it offers a variety of hotels and restaurants. Whether you choose to visit Hallstatt in summer or winter, you will surely fall in love with its charm. It is an ideal place for a romantic holiday and for ski tourism.
Český Krumlov, The Czech Republic
Český Krumlov is a town in the South Bohemian Region in the Czech Republic, which is best known for its architecture, the old town and the castle. Surrounded by the Vltava River, Český Krumlov is a treasure trove of architecture. Included in the list of UNESCO as one of the sites of World Heritage, it houses fairy gardens, offering a lovely view of the city and the landscape of Bohemia behind it. A curious fact is that to enter the city’s castle you have to cross a bridge over a moat inhabited by bears.
The lavish decor of the Renaissance rooms from the second half of the 14th century and baroque halls and dining rooms from the 18th century are completely stored with Renaissance windows, antique columns, carved tables with exquisite ornaments and authentic wooden furniture. One of the distinguishing features of the castle is painted bricks that adorn it. For an additional price, the tourists can visit the tower where each floor is painted in a different colour.
Bibury, England
Bibury is a charming small town in southwest England. Today it is considered as one of the most picturesque and enchanting towns in Europe. The town captivates with its beautiful architecture, carrying us in past ages, and spectacular scenery. Enjoy the endless green meadows that border with the ancient stone houses with steep roofs. Undoubtedly the most impressive place in Bibury is Arlington Row – alley on which are stacked villas built in the 17th century.
Bled, Slovenia
Bled is a famous mountain resort town in Slovenia. With its unique natural beauty, Bled and its surroundings are among the most beautiful Alpine resorts, famous for its mild, healing climate and thermal waters. The beauty of the mountains reflected in the mirrored surface of the lake, the sun, tranquillity and fresh air attract visitors throughout the year, guaranteeing them ideal tourist facilities and conditions for relaxing or active recreation.
One of the main attractions here is the Lake Bled. It attracts tourists from all over the world not only with its beautiful nature but also because here you can see the only Slovenian island. After a walk around the lake, you can visit the medieval castle on the hill, known as the oldest Slovenian castle and one of the most visited attractions in the country. On the Bled’s territory are situated several thermal springs, which are now part of the big hotels and spa centres.
Sintra, Portugal
Sintra is not only one of the loveliest cities in Europe, it is a model of the cultural and historical value of Portuguese heritage. Based on the picturesque hills of the Natural Park “Sintra – Cascais”, Sintra is surrounded by ancient forests, revealing breathtaking views and blessed with year-round favourable for holidays climate. The city is among the monuments of world heritage protected by UNESCO. It is a major tourist destination for a day trips from Lisbon. Here you can see the national palace Pena – the oldest palace in romanticism style, and one of the wonders of Portugal. There are a variety of restaurants where you can taste traditional local dishes. As a city that is located near the ocean, there are plenty of sea products.
Manarola, Italy
Manarola is located on the Italian Riviera, in the province of Liguria, northern Italy. The village is part of the so called Cinque Terre (Five Lands), which is included in the UNESCO list. Manarola has a distinctive vision, its main features are the houses that are built like one over the other on the rocks in an old Italian style and pastel colours, embracing and repelling the beautiful Italian sun. Cars are not allowed here, the only way to reach it is by train.
The village has no beach, but the place is very suitable for underwater swimming and exploration of caves and rocks. Manarola is located in an area known mostly for its fertile vineyards. Back in the Middle Ages here has been produced wine and locals enjoying the magnificent smell and taste of this drink. Do not miss to go walk the coastal path linking the village with Riomaggiore. Called “The Path of Love” (“Via dell’Amore”), it reveals stunning landscape views that will blow you away. Along the way you’ll see many love graffiti, clasps and benches, so sit back and soak in all this beauty and magic around you.
Trogir, Croatia
Trogir is a port city on the Adriatic coast in Dalmatia, Croatia. The city is located on a small island between the mainland of Croatia and the island Ciovo. Trogir is the best preserved Roman-Gothic complex in Europe. The medieval core of the city, surrounded by walls contains castle tower, ancient homes and palaces from Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque period. Trogir is a veritable maze of narrow streets and romantic places. The churches and palaces create a fairy tale atmosphere.
Among the sightseeings of the old town are The St. Lawrence Cathedral, Cipiko Palace, Benedictine Monastery and many others. Tourism is the most important economic factor in the region, covering 50% of the municipal budget. Fishing and agriculture are highly developed in the region. Even just a walk through Trogir is enough to convince yourself that this is one wonderful place in Croatia.
Reine, Norway
Reine is a beautiful fishing village located north of the Arctic Circle in Lofoten – an area with beautiful wildlife and sapphire bays, fjords and mountains. Here you have the unique opportunity to enjoy the long summer days and in winter the incredible Northern Lights. This quiet village is one of the popular destinations in Norway. With its beautiful landscapes, Reine is visited by thousands of tourists every year.
