Europe is a continent steeped in rich history and unique traditions. So, it’s a shame that vacationing in Europe often boils down only to staying in cities everyone knows. Famous cities such as London, Paris, Barcelona, Rome, and Prague are wonderful, magical places to visit, but they’re far from everything the old continent has to offer. Only by sometimes stepping off the beaten path can we experience equally beautiful places we would otherwise probably miss out on.
With that in mind, here are five of the lesser-known European destinations you should definitely try to visit.
1) Budapest, Hungary
Often dismissed in favor of Vienna – the more popular neighboring Austrian city – this Hungarian capital is brimming with things to do and see. Featuring many different architectural styles, all across the city, it’s a great mixture of old and new. Don’t miss out on the chance to try out the national dish – goulash, a hearty and delicious meat stew.
Escapes rooms are also very popular in Budapest, with the city sporting several dozen of these mind-puzzler activities – a perfect bonding activity to try out with friends, family, or even work colleagues.
2) Porto, Portugal
The second-largest city in Portugal, Porto is a laid-back Mediterranean harbor city. While there, you can take a cruise down the river Douro, or visit the historic Ribeira (riverside) district, and marvel at the preserved medieval architecture there. The São Francisco Church and the Palácio de Bolsa are also locales you won’t want to skip visiting.
The birthplace of port wine, Porto residents are very proud of this fact, so you will have plenty of opportunities to taste this sweet, fortified red wine.
3) Brno, Czech Republic
Brno is ideally situated between three European capital cities – Prague, Vienna, and Bratislava meaning, it’s quite easy to take a side-trip to Brno and back all in a single day. Like any other Central European city, beer is of great importance here, and Czechs are by far the biggest beer-consumers per capita in the entire world. Almost every pub you will visit has their own little brewery, whose beers are sold at very affordable prices, especially when compared to some other countries in Europe.
Be sure to visit Špilberk, the castle overlooking Brno. With plenty of trees and other flora, and the Brno City Museum, located there, the climb will surely be worth it.
4) Belgrade, Serbia
Known as the city that never sleeps and long synonymous with its vibrant nightlife scene, Belgrade has numerous nightclubs, pubs, cafes, and even rafts where you can always find a party going on, regardless of the time of day.
While there, definitely partake in the local cuisine – the regional barbecue dishes are strong and savory, as are the liquors. For those tourists who are more culture-oriented, there are several museums, art galleries, and historic monuments to visit.
The people are very warm and friendly and generally speak excellent English.
5) Basel, Switzerland
Situated on the Rhine river, close to the French and German borders, Basel is a dream come true for every culture buff – since it has the highest concentration of museums in all of Europe. Not only that, but the local art scene is also really popular, with plenty of theatre and art shows.
It’s best to visit Basel during its Autumn Fair, famous for amusement rides and local food, or the Fasnacht, a lively three-day carnival full of parades, bands, and various costumes.
