Traveling through Europe, it's quite challenging to really absorb the true atmosphere of a country and region in large capitals and popular tourist spots. The overcrowding with tourists negatively impacts the authenticity and distinctiveness of the place.
In this article, we'll tell you about some lesser-known European cities that can rival popular tourist destinations. Discover where you should go for peaceful strolls through quiet streets, picturesque landscapes, and an authentic European atmosphere.
Manarola (Italy)
This tiny town is nestled among the cliffs in the Liguria region. Manarola is part of the Cinque Terre (Five Lands) reserve and is the oldest of the five villages that make it up. The local landscapes will leave no one indifferent. The warm Ligurian Sea waves crash against the rocky shores, and tiny secluded beaches hide in cozy coves.
The town's highlight is the colorful houses that rise in steps on the cliffs, creating an especially photogenic backdrop. It's best to visit here at sunset when you can sit on an open terrace at a local tavern, listen to the waves while sipping a glass of local wine, and watch the sea reflections of the setting sun.
Mostar (Bosnia and Herzegovina)
When planning a trip along the Adriatic, make sure to add this city to your "wish list." This small town with ancient medieval architecture stretches across both banks of the Neretva River. The two parts of the town are connected by a breathtaking stone bridge, which is the hallmark of this place.
The highest point of the bridge is 21 meters above the water. This is where local thrill-seekers love to jump, entertaining onlookers with their performances. Besides the bridge, Mostar is worth visiting for its ancient mosques and the Muslibegovic House, a beautiful example of Ottoman-period residential architecture in the country.
Bergen (Norway)
Bergen has the largest collection of wooden houses in Europe. The town, founded by the fierce Vikings in 1070, was once the capital of Norway. Today, the town welcomes tourists with rows of colorful houses and vibrant surrounding landscapes.
In Bergen, you should visit the local museum with a Viking-themed exhibition, stroll along the local waterfront, and explore the fish market where the freshest seafood caught in Norway is sold.
Bruges (Belgium)
In Bruges, time seems to have stopped. The only reminders that it's the 21st century are the modern clothing of passersby and electric street lamps. The locals carefully maintain the image of their beloved city. Therefore, in the old center, you won't see bright shop windows, concrete-and-glass buildings, or shopping malls.
In Bruges, you can truly feel what old Europe looked like during the Middle Ages. Start exploring the city from the central square Grote Markt, then climb the Belfort bell tower to overlook the surroundings. You can plan your route in this city and learn more about Bruges' attractions on our portal.
The highlight of Bruges is its swan-lined canals. Along the canals, there are cozy cafes where you can savor traditional Belgian dishes. Interestingly, the famous movie "In Bruges" was filmed here. Indeed, it's the best place to "hide out" for a few days, turn off your phone, and enjoy a leisurely vacation.
Barnsley (UK)
Want to feel like a character from "Jane Eyre" or "Wuthering Heights"? Then you definitely need to visit the town of Barnsley in Gloucestershire. The unwavering traditions of old England and the love of a quiet and respectable life are evident here in every detail.
Perfect green lawns, ancient castle-like houses, churches with spires await you in Barnsley. If you decide to stay for a few days, we recommend spending the night in an authentic mansion hotel to fully immerse yourself in the atmosphere of provincial Britain.
This region is also home to Shakespeare's birthplace-Stratford-upon-Avon.
flickr / DaveBrear
Colmar (France)
Colmar is perhaps the most colorful and fairy-tale-like town in the Alsace region. Here, French and German cultures harmoniously coexist. At first glance, the entire town seems unreal, so decorative is everything. Rows of half-timbered houses line the canals. Open cafe terraces and balconies are adorned with bright flowers. Boats float along the canals, and lovers kiss on the bridges.
Colmar is made for leisurely strolls through narrow streets, long conversations in cafes over a cup of aromatic coffee, and endless photo sessions. Believe me, in this town, you'll want to capture every inch to bring home as many memories as possible.
Odense (Denmark)
Odense is the birthplace of the world's most famous storyteller, Hans Christian Andersen. Walking through the streets of this town, you can't shake the feeling that it's the very place he described in his tales. Roaming between ancient houses, you'll expect cheerful Kai and Gerda to pop out from around the corner, a chimney sweep to appear on the roof, and the naked king to march down the main street in his invisible clothes.
In Odense, there's the writer's house-museum and a garden named after him. Also, visit the medieval castles of Nyborg and Egeskov.
flickr / renata1962
Giethoorn (Netherlands)
The phrase "undiscovered Europe" absolutely applies to the small village of Giethoorn. While millions of tourists storm Amsterdam, the Keukenhof tulip park, and Rotterdam, only experienced travelers and connoisseurs head to Giethoorn to experience genuine Dutch atmosphere.
This little village has no roads or cars, and they aren't needed here. All the houses and buildings in the village are connected by canals, with boats being the primary mode of transport. The locals understand they live in a unique place and strive to maintain a special atmosphere.
All the houses in the village are built in a single style, surrounded by colorful flowerbeds and lawns, and elegant bridges stretch across the canals-combining to create a beautiful ensemble that leaves no one indifferent.
Traveling means discovering the most unique places. Don't just focus on capital cities, as they lose their authenticity in the age of globalization. Explore the provinces and soak in the culture and beauty of different countries.
