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Planning a weekend escape? I’ve compiled an inventory of 12 hidden gem getaways in Europe on your subsequent journey.
Touring by way of Europe is all the time an journey, however the true magic occurs if 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 price your time!
On this information, I’ll share my prime 12 hidden gem weekend getaways in Europe. Every location is exclusive, full of attraction, and ideal for a fast escape. You’ll discover locations which can 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 bounce into the main points, listed below are just a few of my prime 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 checklist: Kotor, Montenegro.
1. Kotor, Montenegro
Kotor is a kind of hidden gems in Europe that you should see to imagine. Located between mountains and the Bay of Kotor, this city gives beautiful views and wealthy historical past. Strolling by way of its slender 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 price 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 below are pleasant and all the time able to share their tradition with you.
When 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 unique angle. You too can go to the close by islands of Our Girl of the Rocks and St. George.
Kotor is a unbelievable 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 unbelievable sights because it spans a dramatic gorge.
Exploring the previous city is pure pleasure. The slender, cobblestone streets and whitewashed buildings are filled with character. The Mondragon Palace, with its lovely gardens and attention-grabbing museum, is a spotlight you received’t wish to miss.
One in every of my favourite issues to do in Ronda is go to the Plaza de Toros. As considered one of Spain’s oldest bullrings, it gives an enchanting peek into native traditions. It’s an expertise that really brings the tradition of Ronda to life.
When 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, stress-free at one of many native cafes or eating places is ideal. I extremely advocate making an attempt tapas at Casa María. The tapas listed below are among the greatest I’ve ever had, and the pleasant environment makes you are feeling proper at residence.
Ronda is the right 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, similar to I did!
3. Český Krumlov, Czech Republic
Surely, Český Krumlov is considered one of Europe’s most underrated locations that extra folks want to find. This charming city, with its beautiful citadel and winding river, looks like stepping right into a fairy story. Good for a weekend escape, it’s surprisingly straightforward to succeed in, simply a few hours’ drive from Prague.
One in every of my favourite spots is the Český Krumlov Fortress. The panoramic views from the tower are completely breathtaking. Don’t miss a stroll by way of the citadel’s lovely gardens, both. They’re lovely and ideal for a stroll.
The city’s historic heart is a delight to discover. The cobblestone streets, colourful buildings, and quaint outlets create a magical environment. Be certain that to go to the Egon Schiele Artwork Centrum for those who’re into artwork.
For a little bit of journey, strive a raft journey on the Vltava River. It’s a enjoyable and distinctive option to see the city from a unique perspective.
When starvation strikes, head to Papa’s Dwelling Restaurant. The normal Czech dishes are unbelievable, and the riverside setting is ideal for a soothing meal.
Český Krumlov has a particular attraction 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. When you’re on the lookout for hidden gem weekend breaks within the Czech Republic, this place needs to be on the prime of your checklist!
4. Sighișoara, Romania
On the lookout for a weekend getaway that looks like stepping right into a storybook? Sighișoara, tucked away in Transylvania, is your good escape. This medieval city, generally known as the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler (sure, Dracula!), is brimming with historical past and attraction.
Getting right here is simple, with just a few hours’ practice or automobile journey from Bucharest. The city’s iconic Clock Tower gives beautiful 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 beautiful structure.
One of many distinctive facets of Sighișoara is its vibrant Medieval Pageant 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. Make sure to strive the native dish, “sarmale,” that are scrumptious cabbage rolls full of minced meat and rice. One other must-try is “mici,” grilled minced meat rolls which can be extremely tasty!
Sighișoara looks like strolling by way of a residing museum, however with all the trendy comforts you want. When 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
When 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 gives jaw-dropping views, beautiful gardens, and a soothing vibe that’s good 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 way of these gardens and absorbing the sweetness.
For music lovers, the Ravello Pageant 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 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 straightforward 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 very best for a weekend? For starters, it’s tremendous walkable. You possibly can discover the complete city on foot, from the beautiful Tartini Sq. to the traditional partitions that supply breathtaking views of the shoreline. Belief me, the sundown from these partitions is one thing you received’t neglect.
When 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 whilst you feast. I personally advocate 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 possibility to go to St. George’s Parish Church for a little bit of tradition and a unbelievable 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 reminiscences. It’s the good spot in Slovenia for anybody trying to unwind and absorb some European attraction!
7. Annecy, France
Annecy is a kind 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 unbelievable 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 way of a postcard.
One in every of my favourite issues to do in Annecy is renting a motorcycle and using round Lake Annecy. The surroundings is breathtaking, and it’s a enjoyable, lively option to see the realm. When you’re into water sports activities, it’s also possible to lease paddleboards or go for a swim.
Annecy is straightforward to succeed in by practice from Geneva or Lyon. The city’s combine of out of doors actions, lovely surroundings, and charming streets will depart you refreshed and smiling.
Annecy’s distinctive attraction and pure magnificence make it a super weekend vacation spot. You’ll depart 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. Good for {couples}, buddies, or solo vacationers, this metropolis in Bosnia and Herzegovina gives 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 beneath is thrilling and a bit nerve-wracking!
Strolling by way of the cobbled streets of the Outdated Bazaar, I felt like I used to be stepping again in time. The colourful stalls are stuffed with handcrafted treasures and conventional Bosnian espresso. It’s the right place to seek out distinctive souvenirs and absorb the colourful environment.
One in every of my favourite spots is the Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque. Climbing the minaret could be a little bit of a exercise, however the panoramic views of Mostar are past price it. For a dose of historical past, go to the Museum of Battle and Genocide Victims. It’s a sobering expertise however gives necessary insights into the town’s previous.
Mostar is tremendous straightforward to get to, with common trains and buses from Sarajevo. When you’re there, every thing is walkable, which makes exploring a breeze.
And oh, the meals! You need to strive 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 wish to be! This laid-back coastal village is ideal for anybody trying to unwind, absorb the solar, and luxuriate in pristine, untouched seashores.
The white sandy seashores stretch for miles, and also you’ll usually discover you’ve got them nearly to your self. It’s a refreshing change from the crowded vacationer spots. My favourite seashore 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 beautiful. Renting a motorcycle and using by way 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 delightful vistas throughout.
One distinctive side 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 right option 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.
When you’re on the lookout for a serene, lovely spot to recharge and luxuriate in nature, Comporta needs to be on the prime of your checklist. It’s actually 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
One in every of my favourite locations in Europe for a panoramic mountain escape is the Rila Mountains in Bulgaria. Good for journey lovers and nature fans, this beautiful vacation spot gives every thing from mountaineering 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 price 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 supply a heat and welcoming keep.
One of the best instances to go to the Rila Mountains are late spring to early autumn (Could to October). Throughout this era, the climate is nice for mountaineering and outside actions, and the surroundings is at its most lovely.
The Rila Mountains are good for anybody trying to reconnect with nature, get some recent air, and expertise a little bit of Bulgarian tradition. When you’re on the lookout for fast getaways in Europe, this place ought to positively be in your checklist. 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 unbelievable spot for households, {couples}, or solo adventurers.
What makes St Ives so particular? For one, the seashores are completely beautiful. Porthmeor Seaside is ideal for browsing, whereas Porthminster Seaside 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 unbelievable artwork in lovely settings. The native galleries and studios are additionally price exploring – you by no means know what hidden gems you may discover!
For a really distinctive expertise, hop on a ship tour to identify seals and dolphins. It’s a magical option to see the shoreline and its wildlife. And don’t neglect to wander by way of the slender, cobbled streets of the city, stuffed with 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 environment, this place has one thing for everybody. Belief me, you’ll fall in love with St Ives similar to I did!
12. Trogir, Croatia
I’ve saved the most effective 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 full of historical past, tradition, and delightful views.
Trogir is good for a fast getaway in Croatia. The complete city is a UNESCO World Heritage website, and the slender, cobbled streets are a pleasure to discover. The Cathedral of St. Lawrence is a spotlight with its unbelievable structure and breathtaking views from the bell tower.
For a soothing day, head to Okrug Seaside. Only a quick stroll from the city heart, this pebbly seashore has crystal-clear waters good for swimming and snorkeling. It’s an excellent 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 all the time 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, every thing is inside strolling distance, including to the city’s laid-back vibe.
Trogir is ideal for {couples}, buddies, or solo vacationers on the lookout for a mix of tradition, leisure, and journey. When you’re planning a weekend break, Trogir ought to positively be in your checklist.
Ceaselessly requested questions (FAQs) about hidden gem getaways in europe
Dreaming of a singular European journey? Our FAQs have all of the solutions! Discover hidden gem getaways, uncover native treasures, and plan your good journey.
What’s the most underrated place in Europe?
Sighișoara, Romania, is likely one of the most underrated locations in Europe. This charming medieval city gives wealthy historical past, vibrant festivals, and beautiful structure, all with out the crowds.
The place in Europe just isn’t 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’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 essentially the most picturesque metropolis in Europe. Referred to as the “Venice of the Alps,” its canals, lakeside views, and charming streets make it a photographer’s dream.
