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Planning a weekend escape? I’ve compiled an inventory of 12 hidden gem getaways in Europe in your subsequent journey.
Touring by Europe is at all times an journey, however the true magic occurs once you uncover the hidden gems. I’ve spent years exploring off-the-beaten-path locations and discovering these particular locations that make for unforgettable weekend getaways. Belief me, these spots are value your time!
On this information, I’ll share my high 12 hidden gem weekend getaways in Europe. Every location is exclusive, full of attraction, and excellent for a fast escape. You’ll discover locations which might be much less crowded, filled with native tradition, and brimming with pure magnificence. Let’s dive into these superb locations collectively. These are my favourite secret spots in Europe that you simply’ll completely love. Able to discover?
Distinctive weekend breaks in Europe
Earlier than we leap into the main points, listed here are a couple of of my high picks to get you excited:
- Most romantic: Ravello, Italy
- Greatest for journey: Rila Mountains, Bulgaria
- Prettiest coastal city: St. Ives, England
- High historic gem: Sighișoara, Romania
- Greatest for leisure: Comporta, Portugal
- Most picturesque metropolis: Annecy, France
Able to discover? Let’s begin with the primary gem on our listing: Kotor, Montenegro.
1. Kotor, Montenegro
Kotor is a type of hidden gems in Europe that it’s essential see to imagine. Located between mountains and the Bay of Kotor, this city provides beautiful views and wealthy historical past. Strolling by its slim streets, you’ll discover medieval structure, charming squares, and centuries-old church buildings.
One of many highlights is climbing the town partitions to St. John’s Fortress. It’s a little bit of a hike, however the panoramic view from the highest is value it. I like to recommend doing this early within the morning to keep away from the crowds and the warmth.
Don’t miss the prospect to discover the native markets. They’re excellent for choosing up recent produce, handmade crafts, and scrumptious native treats. The individuals listed here are pleasant and at all times able to share their tradition with you.
In case you love being by the water, take a ship tour across the bay. It’s a good way to see the great thing about Kotor from a special angle. You may also go to the close by islands of Our Woman of the Rocks and St. George.
Kotor is a incredible spot in Montenegro for a weekend getaway. It’s straightforward to get round on foot, and there are many cozy cafes and eating places to calm down in. Belief me, this place is a real gem!
2. Ronda, Spain
Situated within the Andalusian hills, the charming city of Ronda will take your breath away with its beautiful views and historical past. The long-lasting Puente Nuevo bridge is a must-see, providing unimaginable sights because it spans a dramatic gorge.
Exploring the outdated city is pure pleasure. The slim, cobblestone streets and whitewashed buildings are filled with character. The Mondragon Palace, with its lovely gardens and attention-grabbing museum, is a spotlight you gained’t need to miss.
Certainly one of my favourite issues to do in Ronda is go to the Plaza de Toros. As certainly one of Spain’s oldest bullrings, it provides a captivating peek into native traditions. It’s an expertise that really brings the tradition of Ronda to life.
In case you’re feeling adventurous, the Caminito del Rey path is close by. This thrilling stroll alongside the cliffs gives beautiful views and a little bit of an adrenaline rush. It’s difficult however completely rewarding.
After all of the exploring, enjoyable at one of many native cafes or eating places is ideal. I extremely suggest making an attempt tapas at Casa María. The tapas listed here are a few of the greatest I’ve ever had, and the pleasant ambiance makes you’re feeling proper at residence.
Ronda is the proper spot for a weekend break in Spain. Its mixture of historical past, tradition, and pure magnificence is just unbeatable. You’ll fall in love with this place, identical to I did!
3. Český Krumlov, Czech Republic
Unquestionably, Český Krumlov is certainly one of Europe’s most underrated locations that extra individuals want to find. This charming city, with its beautiful citadel and winding river, looks like stepping right into a fairy story. Excellent for a weekend escape, it’s surprisingly straightforward to achieve, simply a few hours’ drive from Prague.
Certainly one of my favourite spots is the Český Krumlov Citadel. The panoramic views from the tower are completely breathtaking. Don’t miss a stroll by the citadel’s lovely gardens, both. They’re lovely and excellent for a stroll.
The city’s historic heart is a delight to discover. The cobblestone streets, colourful buildings, and quaint outlets create a magical ambiance. Be sure that to go to the Egon Schiele Artwork Centrum should you’re into artwork.
For a little bit of journey, attempt a raft experience on the Vltava River. It’s a enjoyable and distinctive method to see the city from a special perspective.
When starvation strikes, head to Papa’s Dwelling Restaurant. The normal Czech dishes are incredible, and the riverside setting is ideal for a calming meal.
Český Krumlov has a particular attraction that makes it excellent for a fast getaway. Its mixture of historical past, tradition, and pure magnificence will go away you questioning why it took you so lengthy to go to. In case you’re on the lookout for hidden gem weekend breaks within the Czech Republic, this place must be on the high of your listing!
4. Sighișoara, Romania
In search of a weekend getaway that looks like stepping right into a storybook? Sighișoara, tucked away in Transylvania, is your excellent escape. This medieval city, often called the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler (sure, Dracula!), is brimming with historical past and attraction.
Getting right here is simple, with a couple of hours’ prepare or automobile experience from Bucharest. The city’s iconic Clock Tower provides beautiful views and homes a captivating historical past museum. The climb up the coated staircase to the Church on the Hill is an journey in itself, rewarding you with peaceable environment and beautiful structure.
One of many distinctive features of Sighișoara is its vibrant Medieval Competition in July. The city transforms right into a full of life celebration with music, costumes, and performances. It’s an expertise that really brings the city’s historical past to life.
Sighișoara is legendary for its hearty Transylvanian delicacies. Make sure you attempt the native dish, “sarmale,” that are scrumptious cabbage rolls filled with minced meat and rice. One other must-try is “mici,” grilled minced meat rolls which might be extremely tasty!
Sighișoara looks like strolling by a residing museum, however with all the trendy comforts you want. In case you’re searching for hidden gem locations in Europe, Sighișoara will captivate you with its distinctive aptitude. Imagine me, this city is a treasure ready to be found.
5. Ravello, Italy
In case you’re dreaming of a weekend escape in Europe that looks like paradise, Ravello is the place for you. Perched excessive above the Amalfi Coast, this charming city provides jaw-dropping views, beautiful gardens, and a calming vibe that’s excellent for unwinding.
Ravello is a perfect spot for {couples} on the lookout for a romantic getaway or anybody in want of a peaceable retreat. The views from Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrone are merely spectacular. Belief me, there’s nothing fairly like strolling by these gardens and absorbing the wonder.
For music lovers, the Ravello Competition is a should. Held from July to late August, this famend occasion options live shows within the gardens of Villa Rufolo. It’s an unforgettable expertise should you’re visiting throughout these months.
The Amalfi Coast is legendary for its recent seafood, and Ravello’s eating places serve up scrumptious dishes. I extremely suggest making an attempt “scialatielli ai frutti di mare,” a pasta dish full of recent seafood flavors. Pair it with a glass of native wine and also you’re in for a deal with.
Attending to Ravello is simple with a scenic drive from Naples or Salerno. When you’re there, you’ll really feel worlds away from the hustle and bustle.
6. Piran, Slovenia
Craving a enjoyable and refreshing weekend escape? Piran is your go-to vacation spot! This coastal gem on the Adriatic Sea is ideal for anybody craving solar, sea, and a little bit of historical past. It’s like a mini Venice, however far more relaxed and charming.
Why is Piran preferrred for a weekend? For starters, it’s tremendous walkable. You’ll be able to discover your complete city on foot, from the beautiful Tartini Sq. to the traditional partitions that provide breathtaking views of the shoreline. Belief me, the sundown from these partitions is one thing you gained’t neglect.
In case you love recent seafood, Piran is a dream come true. The native dish, “fritaja” (a seafood omelet), is a must-try. Seize a seat at a seaside restaurant and benefit from the relaxed vibes when you feast. I personally suggest Restaurant Pavel.
Piran can also be nice for historical past and seashore lovers. Spend your mornings exploring the medieval structure and your afternoons lounging by the ocean or swimming within the crystal-clear water. Don’t miss the prospect to go to St. George’s Parish Church for a little bit of tradition and a incredible view of the city.
Piran’s mix of solar, sea, and historical past makes it an unforgettable weekend vacation spot. You’ll go away with a tan, a smile, and a bunch of nice reminiscences. It’s the excellent spot in Slovenia for anybody trying to unwind and take in some European attraction!
7. Annecy, France
Annecy is a type of hidden gems in Europe to go to for a magical retreat. Typically referred to as the “Venice of the Alps,” this city is nestled by a crystal-clear lake and surrounded by mountains. It’s a fairytale setting that looks like a slice of paradise.
Annecy is incredible for {couples} searching for romance, households wanting journey, or anybody craving recent air and beautiful views. The charming canals, quaint pastel-colored homes, and the gorgeous lake make it a photographer’s dream. Stroll alongside the Thiou River, and also you’ll really feel such as you’re strolling by a postcard.
Certainly one of my favourite issues to do in Annecy is renting a motorbike and driving round Lake Annecy. The surroundings is breathtaking, and it’s a enjoyable, lively method to see the world. In case you’re into water sports activities, you may also lease paddleboards or go for a swim.
Annecy is simple to achieve by prepare from Geneva or Lyon. The city’s combine of out of doors actions, lovely surroundings, and charming streets will go away you refreshed and smiling.
Annecy’s distinctive attraction and pure magnificence make it a super weekend vacation spot. You’ll go away with unforgettable reminiscences and a newfound love for this picturesque gem in France.
8. Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Mostar is a weekend getaway that really captivates the guts. Excellent for {couples}, pals, or solo vacationers, this metropolis in Bosnia and Herzegovina provides a mixture of historical past, tradition, and beautiful surroundings.
The long-lasting Stari Most, or Outdated Bridge, is an absolute must-see. Watching native divers leap off the bridge into the river under is thrilling and a bit nerve-wracking!
Strolling by the cobbled streets of the Outdated Bazaar, I felt like I used to be stepping again in time. The colourful stalls are full of handcrafted treasures and conventional Bosnian espresso. It’s the proper place to seek out distinctive souvenirs and take in the colourful ambiance.
Certainly one of my favourite spots is the Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque. Climbing the minaret is likely to be a little bit of a exercise, however the panoramic views of Mostar are past value it. For a dose of historical past, go to the Museum of Battle and Genocide Victims. It’s a sobering expertise however provides essential insights into the town’s previous.
Mostar is tremendous straightforward to get to, with common trains and buses from Sarajevo. When you’re there, the whole lot is walkable, which makes exploring a breeze.
And oh, the meals! You need to attempt cevapi, the native grilled sausages. They’re served with recent bread and are completely mouthwatering.
9. Comporta, Portugal
Dreaming of a seashore paradise that looks like a secret escape? Comporta in Portugal is precisely the place you need to be! This laid-back coastal village is ideal for anybody trying to unwind, take in the solar, and luxuriate in pristine, untouched seashores.
The white sandy seashores stretch for miles, and also you’ll usually discover you could have them virtually to your self. It’s a refreshing change from the crowded vacationer spots. My favourite seashore is Praia da Comporta. It’s excellent for an extended, enjoyable day by the ocean.
For nature lovers, the close by rice fields and cork forests are beautiful. Renting a motorbike and driving by these scenic areas is a should. You’ll really feel such as you’re a part of the panorama, with the recent air and exquisite vistas throughout.
One distinctive facet of Comporta is its relaxed vibe. The city itself is charming, with whitewashed homes and native markets. Seize a drink at a beachside bar and watch the sundown – it’s the proper method to finish the day.
Comporta is definitely accessible from Lisbon, just a bit over an hour’s drive. This makes it tremendous handy for a fast escape.
In case you’re on the lookout for a serene, lovely spot to recharge and luxuriate in nature, Comporta must be on the high of your listing. It’s really one of many greatest locations to go to in Europe for a weekend getaway, providing an unforgettable mix of leisure and pure magnificence.
10. Rila Mountains, Bulgaria
Certainly one of my favourite locations in Europe for a wide ranging mountain escape is the Rila Mountains in Bulgaria. Excellent for journey lovers and nature fanatics, this beautiful vacation spot provides the whole lot from climbing to serene lakes.
With lush forests, crystal-clear lakes, and majestic peaks, it’s a hiker’s dream. One of many highlights is the Seven Rila Lakes hike. It’s a bit difficult, however the views are completely value it. Plus, the recent mountain air is invigorating!
Attending to the Rila Mountains is fairly easy. It’s simply a few hours’ drive from Sofia. When you’re there, you may simply discover cozy lodges and guesthouses that provide a heat and welcoming keep.
The very best instances to go to the Rila Mountains are late spring to early autumn (Might to October). Throughout this era, the climate is nice for climbing and outside actions, and the surroundings is at its most lovely.
The Rila Mountains are excellent for anybody trying to reconnect with nature, get some recent air, and expertise a little bit of Bulgarian tradition. In case you’re on the lookout for fast getaways in Europe, this place ought to undoubtedly be in your listing. You’ll go away feeling refreshed, impressed, and completely in awe of the pure magnificence round you!
11. St. Ives, England
St Ives is palms down my favourite place in Cornwall! This charming seaside city is ideal for a enjoyable and enjoyable weekend break in England. The golden seashores, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant artwork scene make it a incredible spot for households, {couples}, or solo adventurers.
What makes St Ives so particular? For one, the seashores are completely beautiful. Porthmeor Seashore is ideal for browsing, whereas Porthminster Seashore is nice for a extra laid-back vibe. I like taking lengthy walks alongside the coast, absorbing the solar and the recent sea breeze.
The Tate St Ives and the Barbara Hepworth Museum are must-visits, showcasing unimaginable artwork in lovely settings. The native galleries and studios are additionally value exploring – you by no means know what hidden gems you would possibly discover!
For a really distinctive expertise, hop on a ship tour to identify seals and dolphins. It’s a magical method to see the shoreline and its wildlife. And don’t neglect to wander by the slim, cobbled streets of the city, full of quirky outlets, cafes, and charming cottages.
St Ives is ideal for anybody trying to unwind, discover, and luxuriate in the fantastic thing about Cornwall. Whether or not you’re into seashore actions, artwork, or simply absorbing the ambiance, this place has one thing for everybody. Belief me, you’ll fall in love with St Ives identical to I did!
12. Trogir, Croatia
I’ve saved the most effective for final! Trogir is a shocking coastal city that’s excellent for anybody questioning the place to go in Europe for a weekend break. This charming medieval city is full of historical past, tradition, and exquisite views.
Trogir is right for a fast getaway in Croatia. Your complete city is a UNESCO World Heritage web site, and the slim, cobbled streets are a pleasure to discover. The Cathedral of St. Lawrence is a spotlight with its unimaginable structure and breathtaking views from the bell tower.
For a calming day, head to Okrug Seashore. Only a quick stroll from the city heart, this pebbly seashore has crystal-clear waters excellent for swimming and snorkeling. It’s an excellent spot to unwind and take in the solar.
The native seafood is a must-try. The recent catch of the day at any seaside restaurant is at all times scrumptious, and eating with a view of the Adriatic Sea makes it even higher.
Attending to Trogir is a breeze. It’s only a quick drive from Break up Airport, which makes it tremendous handy for a weekend escape. When you’re there, the whole lot is inside strolling distance, including to the city’s laid-back vibe.
Trogir is ideal for {couples}, pals, or solo vacationers on the lookout for a mix of tradition, leisure, and journey. In case you’re planning a weekend break, Trogir ought to undoubtedly be in your listing.
Steadily requested questions (FAQs) about hidden gem getaways in europe
Dreaming of a novel European journey? Our FAQs have all of the solutions! Discover hidden gem getaways, uncover native treasures, and plan your excellent journey.
What’s the most underrated place in Europe?
Sighișoara, Romania, is among the most underrated locations in Europe. This charming medieval city provides wealthy historical past, vibrant festivals, and beautiful structure, all with out the crowds.
The place in Europe is just not touristy?
Comporta, Portugal, is a hidden gem that’s not touristy. With pristine seashores, peaceable rice fields, and a relaxed vibe, it’s excellent for a tranquil getaway.
What’s the prettiest a part of Europe?
The Amalfi Coast in Italy is usually thought of the prettiest a part of Europe. With its dramatic cliffs, colourful villages, and glowing blue waters, it’s a paradise!
What’s the most picturesque metropolis in Europe?
Annecy, France, is probably the most picturesque metropolis in Europe. Generally known as the “Venice of the Alps,” its canals, lakeside views, and charming streets make it a photographer’s dream.
