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Planning a weekend escape? I’ve compiled a listing of 12 hidden gem getaways in Europe on your subsequent journey.
Traveling by means of 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. Trust me, these spots are value your time!
In this information, I’ll share my high 12 hidden gem weekend getaways in Europe. Each location is exclusive, filled with appeal, and excellent for a fast escape. You’ll discover locations which are much less crowded, stuffed 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. Ready to discover?
Unique weekend breaks in Europe
Before we soar into the small print, listed here are a number of of my high picks to get you excited:
- Most romantic: Ravello, Italy
- Best for journey: Rila Mountains, Bulgaria
- Prettiest coastal city: St. Ives, England
- Top historic gem: Sighișoara, Romania
- Best for rest: Comporta, Portugal
- Most picturesque metropolis: Annecy, France
Ready to discover? Let’s begin with the primary gem on our listing: Kotor, Montenegro.
1. Kotor, Montenegro
Kotor is a kind of hidden gems in Europe that it is advisable see to consider. Situated between mountains and the Bay of Kotor, this city provides gorgeous views and wealthy historical past. Walking by means of its slender streets, you’ll discover medieval structure, charming squares, and centuries-old church buildings.
One of the 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 possibility to discover the native markets. They’re good for choosing up recent produce, handmade crafts, and scrumptious native treats. The folks listed here are pleasant and at all times able to share their tradition with you.
If you’re keen on being by the water, take a ship tour across the bay. It’s a good way to see the fantastic thing about Kotor from a distinct angle. You can even go to the close by islands of Our Lady 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. Trust me, this place is a real gem!
2. Ronda, Spain
Located within the Andalusian hills, the charming city of Ronda will take your breath away with its gorgeous views and historical past. The iconic Puente Nuevo bridge is a must-see, providing unimaginable sights because it spans a dramatic gorge.
Exploring the previous city is pure pleasure. The slender, cobblestone streets and whitewashed buildings are stuffed with character. The Mondragon Palace, with its lovely gardens and attention-grabbing museum, is a spotlight you gained’t wish to miss.
One of my favourite issues to do in Ronda is go to the Plaza de Toros. As one in all Spain’s oldest bullrings, it provides an enchanting peek into native traditions. It’s an expertise that really brings the tradition of Ronda to life.
If you’re feeling adventurous, the Caminito del Rey path is close by. This thrilling stroll alongside the cliffs supplies gorgeous views and a little bit of an adrenaline rush. It’s difficult however completely rewarding.
After all of the exploring, stress-free at one of many native cafes or eating places is ideal. I extremely advocate attempting tapas at Casa María. The tapas listed here are a few of the finest I’ve ever had, and the pleasant environment makes you are feeling proper at dwelling.
Ronda is the right spot for a weekend break in Spain. Its mixture of historical past, tradition, and pure magnificence is solely unbeatable. You’ll fall in love with this place, similar to I did!
3. Český Krumlov, Czech Republic
Without a doubt, Český Krumlov is one in all Europe’s most underrated locations that extra folks want to find. This charming city, with its gorgeous citadel and winding river, looks like stepping right into a fairy story. Perfect for a weekend escape, it’s surprisingly straightforward to succeed in, simply a few hours’ drive from Prague.
One of my favourite spots is the Český Krumlov Castle. The panoramic views from the tower are completely breathtaking. Don’t miss a stroll by means of the citadel’s lovely gardens, both. They’re lovely and excellent for a stroll.
The city’s historic middle is a delight to discover. The cobblestone streets, colourful buildings, and quaint retailers create a magical environment. Make positive to go to the Egon Schiele Art Centrum for those who’re into artwork.
For a little bit of journey, attempt a raft journey on the Vltava River. It’s a enjoyable and distinctive technique to see the city from a distinct perspective.
When starvation strikes, head to Papa’s Living Restaurant. The conventional Czech dishes are incredible, and the riverside setting is ideal for a soothing meal.
Český Krumlov has a particular appeal that makes it good for a fast getaway. Its mixture of historical past, tradition, and pure magnificence will depart you questioning why it took you so lengthy to go to. If you’re searching for hidden gem weekend breaks within the Czech Republic, this place must be on the high of your listing!
4. Sighișoara, Romania
Looking for a weekend getaway that looks like stepping right into a storybook? Sighișoara, tucked away in Transylvania, is your good escape. This medieval city, often called the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler (sure, Dracula!), is brimming with historical past and appeal.
Getting right here is simple, with a number of hours’ prepare or automotive journey from Bucharest. The city’s iconic Clock Tower provides gorgeous views and homes an enchanting 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 gorgeous structure.
One of the distinctive elements of Sighișoara is its vibrant Medieval Festival in July. The city transforms right into a vigorous celebration with music, costumes, and performances. It’s an expertise that really brings the city’s historical past to life.
Sighișoara is known for its hearty Transylvanian delicacies. Be positive to attempt the native dish, “sarmale,” that are scrumptious cabbage rolls full of minced meat and rice. Another must-try is “mici,” grilled minced meat rolls which are extremely tasty!
Sighișoara looks like strolling by means of a dwelling museum, however with all the fashionable comforts you want. If you’re searching for hidden gem locations in Europe, Sighișoara will captivate you with its distinctive aptitude. Believe me, this city is a treasure ready to be found.
5. Ravello, Italy
If 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, gorgeous gardens, and a soothing vibe that’s good for unwinding.
Ravello is a perfect spot for {couples} searching for a romantic getaway or anybody in want of a peaceable retreat. The views from Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrone are merely spectacular. Trust me, there’s nothing fairly like strolling by means of these gardens and absorbing the wonder.
For music lovers, the Ravello Festival is a should. Held from July to late August, this famend occasion options concert events within the gardens of Villa Rufolo. It’s an unforgettable expertise for those who’re visiting throughout these months.
The Amalfi Coast is known for its recent seafood, and Ravello’s eating places serve up scrumptious dishes. I extremely advocate attempting “scialatielli ai frutti di mare,” a pasta dish filled with recent seafood flavors. Pair it with a glass of native wine and also you’re in for a deal with.
Getting to Ravello is simple with a scenic drive from Naples or Salerno. Once 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 supreme for a weekend? For starters, it’s tremendous walkable. You can discover your entire city on foot, from the gorgeous Tartini Square to the traditional partitions that supply breathtaking views of the shoreline. Trust me, the sundown from these partitions is one thing you gained’t overlook.
If you’re keen on recent seafood, Piran is a dream come true. The native dish, “fritaja” (a seafood omelet), is a must-try. Grab a seat at a seaside restaurant and benefit from the relaxed vibes when you feast. I personally advocate Restaurant Pavel.
Piran can be nice for historical past and seaside 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 possibility 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 depart with a tan, a smile, and a bunch of nice recollections. It’s the good spot in Slovenia for anybody seeking to unwind and absorb some European appeal!
7. Annecy, France
Annecy is a kind of hidden gems in Europe to go to for a magical retreat. Often 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 gorgeous views. The charming canals, quaint pastel-colored homes, and the attractive lake make it a photographer’s dream. Stroll alongside the Thiou River, and also you’ll really feel such as you’re strolling by means of a postcard.
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, energetic technique to see the world. If you’re into water sports activities, you may as well hire paddleboards or go for a swim.
Annecy is simple to succeed in by prepare from Geneva or Lyon. The city’s combine of outside actions, lovely surroundings, and charming streets will depart you refreshed and smiling.
Annecy’s distinctive appeal and pure magnificence make it a really perfect weekend vacation spot. You’ll depart with unforgettable recollections and a newfound love for this picturesque gem in France.
8. Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Mostar is a weekend getaway that really captivates the center. Perfect for {couples}, pals, or solo vacationers, this metropolis in Bosnia and Herzegovina provides a mixture of historical past, tradition, and gorgeous surroundings.
The iconic Stari Most, or Old 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 means of the cobbled streets of the Old 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 right place to seek out distinctive souvenirs and absorb the colourful environment.
One of my favourite spots is the Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque. Climbing the minaret is perhaps 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 War and Genocide Victims. It’s a sobering expertise however provides vital insights into the town’s previous.
Mostar is tremendous straightforward to get to, with common trains and buses from Sarajevo. Once you’re there, all the things 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 seaside paradise that looks like a secret escape? Comporta in Portugal is precisely the place you wish to be! This laid-back coastal village is ideal for anybody seeking to unwind, absorb the solar, and revel in pristine, untouched seashores.
The white sandy seashores stretch for miles, and also you’ll usually discover you will have them nearly to your self. It’s a refreshing change from the crowded vacationer spots. My favourite seaside is Praia da Comporta. It’s good for an extended, stress-free day by the ocean.
For nature lovers, the close by rice fields and cork forests are gorgeous. Renting a motorbike and driving by means of 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 side of Comporta is its relaxed vibe. The city itself is charming, with whitewashed homes and native markets. Grab a drink at a beachside bar and watch the sundown – it’s the right technique 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.
If you’re searching for a serene, lovely spot to recharge and revel in nature, Comporta must be on the high of your listing. It’s really one of many finest locations to go to in Europe for a weekend getaway, providing an unforgettable mix of rest and pure magnificence.
10. Rila Mountains, Bulgaria
One of my favourite locations in Europe for a panoramic mountain escape is the Rila Mountains in Bulgaria. Perfect for journey lovers and nature lovers, this gorgeous vacation spot provides all the things from climbing to serene lakes.
With lush forests, crystal-clear lakes, and majestic peaks, it’s a hiker’s dream. One of the 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!
Getting to the Rila Mountains is fairly simple. It’s simply a few hours’ drive from Sofia. Once you’re there, you may simply discover cozy lodges and guesthouses that supply a heat and welcoming keep.
The finest instances to go to the Rila Mountains are late spring to early autumn (May to October). During this era, the climate is nice for climbing and outside actions, and the surroundings is at its most lovely.
The Rila Mountains are good for anybody seeking to reconnect with nature, get some recent air, and expertise a little bit of Bulgarian tradition. If you’re searching for fast getaways in Europe, this place ought to positively be in your listing. You’ll depart 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 stress-free 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 gorgeous. Porthmeor Beach is ideal for browsing, whereas Porthminster Beach is nice for a extra laid-back vibe. I really 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 very distinctive expertise, hop on a ship tour to identify seals and dolphins. It’s a magical technique to see the shoreline and its wildlife. And don’t overlook to wander by means of the slender, cobbled streets of the city, full of quirky retailers, cafes, and charming cottages.
St Ives is ideal for anybody seeking to unwind, discover, and revel in the great thing about Cornwall. Whether you’re into seaside actions, artwork, or simply absorbing the environment, this place has one thing for everybody. Trust me, you’ll fall in love with St Ives similar to I did!
12. Trogir, Croatia
I’ve saved the perfect for final! Trogir is a shocking coastal city that’s good for anybody questioning the place to go in Europe for a weekend break. This charming medieval city is filled with historical past, tradition, and exquisite views.
Trogir is good for a fast getaway in Croatia. The total city is a UNESCO World Heritage web site, and the slender, 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 soothing day, head to Okrug Beach. Just a brief stroll from the city middle, this pebbly seaside has crystal-clear waters good for swimming and snorkeling. It’s a fantastic spot to unwind and absorb 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.
Getting to Trogir is a breeze. It’s only a quick drive from Split Airport, which makes it tremendous handy for a weekend escape. Once you’re there, all the things is inside strolling distance, including to the city’s laid-back vibe.
Trogir is ideal for {couples}, pals, or solo vacationers searching for a mix of tradition, rest, and journey. If you’re planning a weekend break, Trogir ought to positively be in your listing.
Frequently requested questions (FAQs) about hidden gem getaways in europe
Dreaming of a singular European journey? Our FAQs have all of the solutions! Explore hidden gem getaways, uncover native treasures, and plan your good journey.
What is probably the most underrated place in Europe?
Sighișoara, Romania, is without doubt one of the most underrated locations in Europe. This charming medieval city provides wealthy historical past, vibrant festivals, and gorgeous structure, all with out the crowds.
Where 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 good for a tranquil getaway.
What is the prettiest a part of Europe?
The Amalfi Coast in Italy is commonly thought of the prettiest a part of Europe. With its dramatic cliffs, colourful villages, and glowing blue waters, it’s a paradise!
What is probably the most picturesque metropolis in Europe?
Annecy, France, is probably the most picturesque metropolis in Europe. Known because the “Venice of the Alps,” its canals, lakeside views, and charming streets make it a photographer’s dream.
